Bob Menendez Sentenced To 11 Years After Conviction In Corruption Case

Former Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) was sentenced to 11 years in prison Wednesday following his conviction on corruption charges. The sentencing took place in a Manhattan federal courtroom, where the disgraced Democrat was found guilty of accepting bribes in exchange for political favors benefiting foreign governments.

Menendez was convicted last summer on 16 felony counts, including bribery, conspiracy, and obstruction of justice. Prosecutors detailed how the former senator used his position as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to assist businessmen in their dealings with Egypt and Qatar. The bribes included gold bars, cash, and a luxury vehicle.

Judge Sidney Stein, delivering the sentence, called Menendez’s actions a betrayal of public trust. The court also ordered him to forfeit over $920,000, which was part of the illegal payments he received. Prosecutors had originally sought a 15-year sentence, citing the severity of the crimes.

Two of Menendez’s co-conspirators, Wael Hana and Fred Daibes, were also sentenced this week. Hana, accused of brokering deals with Egyptian officials, was given an eight-year prison term. Daibes, a real estate developer who funneled bribes to Menendez, was sentenced to seven years. A third businessman testified against Menendez after taking a plea deal.

Menendez’s wife, Nadine, was also indicted in the case, but her trial has been postponed due to health concerns. Prosecutors allege she played a central role in securing gifts for her husband, including a Mercedes-Benz.

Speaking outside the courthouse, Menendez insisted he was the target of a politically motivated prosecution, comparing his case to what he called the Justice Department’s “witch hunt” against President Donald Trump.